1-Step 1: Get the chicken ready Start with cooked and cooled chicken. Rotisserie chicken makes this easy, but leftover baked chicken or poached chicken works well too. Chop or shred about 2 cups into bite-sized pieces, about 1/2-inch chunks. If the chicken is warm, let it cool first so the salad stays creamy instead of watery. Place the chicken in a large mixing bowl. Then add the diced celery and thinly sliced green onion. These two ingredients give the salad a crisp bite and fresh flavor. If you want a sharper onion taste, use finely diced red onion or chives instead.

2-Step 2: Mix the dressing In a separate small bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, seasoned salt, black pepper, and dill if you are using it. Mixing the dressing first helps the flavors blend evenly before it touches the chicken. This is a small step, but it makes a big difference in the final taste. If you want a lighter version, replace half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. That keeps the salad creamy while cutting some of the richness. You can also add a little hot sauce or relish here if you like a bolder flavor. Keep the seasoning mild at first, since you can always add more later.

3-Step 3: Combine everything Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Stir gently until the chicken is evenly coated. Try not to overmix, especially if you used shredded chicken, because gentle stirring keeps the texture pleasant. At this stage, you can also fold in the optional add-ins. Chopped red grapes or peeled apple add sweetness, while chopped pecans, almonds, or cashews bring crunch. If you like a heartier salad, chopped boiled eggs work well too. These add-ins turn a simple chicken salad into something a little more filling and fun.

4-Step 4: Taste and adjust Taste the salad before serving. Add a little more salt or black pepper if needed. If the mixture seems too thick, stir in a small spoonful of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt. If it tastes flat, a little extra Dijon mustard or dill can wake it up. This is also the best time to adjust the texture. Some people like a chunky salad with bigger chicken pieces, while others prefer a finer mix. Either style works well, so make it the way your family enjoys it most.

5-Step 5: Serve it your favorite way Spoon the finished chicken salad onto bread, croissants, rolls, or crackers. You can also serve it over lettuce for a lighter meal or tuck it into lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. Lightly toasted bread adds extra texture and keeps sandwiches from getting soggy. If you are packing lunch, chill the salad before assembling sandwiches. That helps it stay fresh and neat. For gatherings, place the bowl on a platter with greens, crackers, and sliced vegetables so guests can build their own plates. This makes the recipe especially useful for church meals, potlucks, and picnic tables.